Defending champion Gianmarco Tamberi has faced a challenging road to the men's high jump final at the Stade de France. The Italian star, who recently battled kidney stones and spent time in the hospital, continues to grapple with excruciating pain as he prepares for the competition.
Despite initially believing that his health issues had subsided, Tamberi revealed on Saturday that he was once again experiencing intense pain due to another kidney colic. This setback has left him uncertain about his ability to perform at his best during the final.
Tamberi's journey to the final has been marked by resilience and determination. In a poignant Instagram post, he expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received and acknowledged the challenges he has faced leading up to the event.
Notably, Tamberi made headlines during the Tokyo Olympics when he and Mutaz Barshim of Qatar decided to share the Olympic gold rather than participate in a jump-off to determine the winner. This act of sportsmanship captured the hearts of fans around the world and solidified Tamberi's reputation as a true competitor.
As Tamberi prepares to take the stage at the Stade de France, his fans and supporters are undoubtedly rooting for him to overcome his health struggles and deliver a memorable performance. While the road ahead may be uncertain, Tamberi's unwavering spirit and determination serve as a testament to his status as a champion both on and off the field.